Press Release: Through Art, Children Learn to Know Themselves and Their World

Through Art, Children Learn to Know Themselves and Their World

Published on: 13 Juni 2026

Jakarta, June 13, 2026 — Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Wamendikdasmen), Fajar Riza Ul Haq, officially opened the Bentara Budaya Painting Exhibition titled "Children in the Trajectory of Time" in Jakarta on Thursday (June 11). The exhibition features works by artists about children, as well as works by children depicting their world from their own perspectives and imaginations.

In his remarks, Deputy Minister Fajar emphasized the importance of introducing art to children from an early age as part of a holistic educational process. He stated that experiences interacting with art not only develop creativity but also help children understand themselves and their environment.

"We believe that introducing children to the world of art, including painting, from an early age is part of our efforts to hone their aesthetic experience. In this way, we can teach children what it means to be truly human. Being human is a profound concept in the context of education," said Deputy Minister Fajar.

He believes the exhibition, which brings together works by adult artists about children with works by children about their own worlds, reflects an effort to create a cultural space that supports children's holistic development. Children grow not only intellectually but also through their imagination and creativity. This is the process expected to develop in a holistic educational environment.

"I view this kind of artistic process, instilled in children from an early age, as part of an effort to foster psychological well-being. Art provides a space for children to express their inner feelings," he said.

According to Deputy Minister Fajar, the works displayed in this exhibition not only demonstrate children's painting skills but also showcase their imaginations about themselves, their surroundings, and the world they experience daily. The intersection of adult and children's works also creates an imaginative dialogue that enriches the perspectives of both parties.

"When an exhibition space brings together adult work about children and children's work about their world, it creates a meeting of imaginations and a dialogue between adults and children. This process can give rise to a variety of extraordinary ideas and creative works," he said.

Meanwhile, Bentara Budaya General Manager Ilham Khoiri explained that this exhibition is a collaboration between works by artists in Bentara Budaya's collection and those of children aged 6 to 16 who were specially invited to depict their worlds. All works in the exhibition were curated by Frans Sartono and Efix Mulyadi.

According to Ilham, the works of adult artists generally place children as part of broader narratives, such as education, social life, and various societal dynamics. In contrast, children's works often capture everyday experiences, expressed spontaneously according to their emotions and imagination.

"Bentara Budaya strongly supports children's development through creativity. Through painting, children can discover themselves and share their world with others," said Ilham.*** (Writer: Stephanie/Photographer: Nurlaili)

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